Communication of risks: organization of a methylmercury campaign in the Cree communities of James Bay, Northern Quebec, Canada.

In the James Bay region of Canada, with the advent of extensive hydroelectric development, methylmercury contamination of fish has become a serious problem, having a direct impact on the Cree way of living. In 1982, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay implemented a methylmercury exposure surveillance program in all Cree communities. Since that time, it has developed several educational tools on methylmercury contamination, including posters, pamphlets, and a video. In 1993 and 1994, Cree leaders, Community Health Representatives, medical staff, and other selected band members were consulted to identify the needs of the population regarding information on mercury. All questions and comments were listed, and a summary was sent to those consulted to double check the type of information required by the population. This led to the preparation of a brochure on mercury in a question and answer format, as well as creation of posters. The brochure and the posters were published in French, English and Cree and distributed in each community. A radio message was broadcast in all communities, and individual and group meetings were also held. Cree involvement in the mercury information program has been essential to its success.